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Fawn Weaver | USA | Leadership & Community Impact

Founder & CEO, Grant Sidney, Inc. (Owner, Uncle Nearest)

Endeavor Board Member | YPO Member | New York Times Bestselling Author

USA Today Bestselling Author | TED Speaker


Fawn Weaver's journey is one of tenacity, creativity, and a love for life. The founder and CEO of Grant Sidney Inc. and Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, Weaver’s story is as rich as the whiskey she champions. Born to Motown recording artist turned minister, Frank Wilson, and his wife, Philomina, in Pasadena, Weaver's childhood was steeped in the glamour of Motown, mingling with legends like Stevie Wonder and Smokey Robinson. Despite a tumultuous adolescence that saw her leave home at 15 and live in various homeless shelters, Weaver’s indomitable spirit shone through. By 19, she had founded her first company, FEW Entertainment, which specialized in PR and special events.

In 2016, while traveling with her husband, she stumbled upon a New York Times article about Nearest Green, the formerly enslaved man who taught Jack Daniel how to distill Tennessee whiskey. Captivated, Weaver delved into Green’s history, uncovering his pivotal role at the Jack Daniel Distillery. This discovery ignited a passion that led to the creation of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey in 2017, making her the first African-American woman to lead a major spirits brand.


Under Weaver's leadership, Uncle Nearest quickly became the fastest-growing and most awarded American whiskey brand, expanding to 12 countries by 2018. The brand's success is a testament to Weaver's strategic vision and relentless pursuit of excellence.


Her innovative approach has not only elevated the brand but also honored Green's legacy through the Nearest Green Foundation, which offers scholarships and supports initiatives like the Nearest & Jack Advancement Initiative.


In 2020, Weaver launched the Black Business Booster program to support Black-owned spirits companies, followed by the $50 million Uncle Nearest Venture Fund in 2021 to invest in minority-owned spirits businesses. Her efforts have cemented her status as a trailblazer in the spirits industry.


Beyond whiskey, Weaver’s career is marked by a series of successful ventures, including her role as an executive in the hospitality and real estate sectors, and as an author of bestsellers like "Happy Wives Club" and "The Argument-Free Marriage."


Her influence extends to her positions on the boards of Endeavor and other prestigious organizations, reflecting her commitment to leadership and community impact.


Weaver's journey from a challenging youth to a celebrated entrepreneur and leader is a testament to her resilience, creativity, and unyielding passion for making a difference. She continues to inspire with her belief in living fully, learning intentionally, and creating a legacy that uplifts others.


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